Jeff:
Let me add a couple other reasons of conduct an RFI-Request for Information, before issuing an RFP.
In addition to learning about the current capabilities, an RFI will lessen a vendor's concern about profitability.
By going straight to an RFP, vendor does not have an in-depth knowledge of the business needs, the skills of your teams, or the organizational commitment to the process.
Consequently, the vendors will increase their contingency buffer for the project to cover their unknowns. I seen 50% contingencies in RFP submissions.
The worst thing for a vendor is to win an RFP but to lose money on it.
The RFI discussion will enable the vendor to see how they can solve the problem and have the confidence to sharpen their pencil for the bid.
Also, via the RFI, you can find vendors who work well with you.
Establishing that relationship early is key since all projects hit a rough spot and you need relationship capital to get through it.
A straight RFP process does not typically allow that relationship to develop in depth and, at the first sign of trouble, in come the lawyers and the project is doomed.
Also, the RFI process will help create vendor interest and form the vendor pool to respond to the RFP.
Lastly, if you have a budget, share it up front. This approach will both inspire creativity and weed out vendors who can not operate w/in your budget.
On the flip side, even if it is a lower budget, the big consulting firms will participate in the RFI in the hopes of getting the budget grown. For an RFI, that is a win/win.
Again, let me know if I can help.
Been there, done that.
George
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George Warner
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Original Message:
Sent: Tue August 09, 2022 10:28 AM
From: George Warner
Subject: Vendor search for upcoming RFP's
Jeff:
Not sure if your org is private or Public or what your timeline is. From experience, I would offer that you should issue an RFI-Request For Information first.
In that way, you will learn where the market is now and what are the current capabilities. In addition, for the Public Sector, you can ask any and all questions in an RFI. That is not the case in an RFP. The RFI helps build, becomes the foundation for a successful RFP. Additionally, the RFI generates interest in the RFP. You can make RFP submissions contingent on RFI participation. Bottom line, for a successful RFP, hold an RFI first. Let me know if I can help.
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George Warner
Original Message:
Sent: Tue August 02, 2022 10:03 AM
From: Jeffrey Hays
Subject: Vendor search for upcoming RFP's
Hello,
My organization will likely be releasing some upcoming RFP's for CP4BA/BAW work in the very near future and I would like to put together a list of consultants/developers who might be interested in proposing. Please respond with your contact information (or a referral if you know someone who you would recommend) if you have an interest.
Thanks!
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Jeffrey Hays
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